Recommended Gift Books for Crime and Mystery Enthusiasts
Guide to Gifts on Our Platform 2021, Segment 2: Coffee Table Collection
Looking for the ideal holiday gift for a loved one who appreciates crime, detective fiction, graphic novel mysteries, or film noir? We have compiled a list of stunning book recommendations to cater to a range of preferences, from oversized to pocket-sized and everywhere in between.
Uncommon Advice from Poe's Life Lessons
The year two of the pandemic has us all seeking inspiration, and who better to turn to than the curmudgeonly figure of Edgar Allan Poe? In "Poe For Your Problems: Uncommon Advice from History's Least Likely Self-Help Guru" by Catherine Baab-Muguira, readers can delve into Poe's dedication to literary hustling and the constant struggle to find the right home for his work. This book serves as the perfect gift for the grumpy writer in your life.
A Graphic Memoir of True Crime Obsession
Hilary Fitzgerald Campbell's "Murder Book: A Graphic Memoir of our True Crime Section Obsession" provides a captivating blend of humor and information. Ideal for both women and anyone with a shared love of crime-based language, this book explores the world of true crime in a fun and informative way.
Re-examining the Making of 'The Godfather'
For fans of cinema history, Mark Seal's "Leave the Gun, Take the Cannoli: The Epic Story of the Making of the Godfather" provides a fascinating account of how Francis Ford Coppola brought the iconic film to life. Readers can also explore the influences of "The Godfather" on David Chase's "The Sopranos" in an excerpt from the book.
Patricia Highsmith's Dark Diaries
Offering a fascinating lens into the strange confluences of history and personality, "Patricia Highsmith: The Diaries and Notebooks, 1941-1993" provides an intimate look into the life of the acclaimed author. While her diaries may contain more self-loathing and amorality than a typical Highsmith novel, they provide a unique perspective on the defining voices of an era.
A Guide to Notorious US Murders
If you know someone who has amassed an extensive collection of true crime books but still yearns for more, "Murder Maps, USA: Crime Scenes Revisited; Bloodstains to Ballistics, 1865 -1939" by Adam Selzer could be the perfect find. This well-designed guide explores a variety of strange and intriguing US murders committed between 1865 and 1939, complete with infographics and original documents.
Great British Houses in Literature and Life
While not strictly crime-focused, "House of Fiction: From Pemberley to Brideshead, Great British Houses in Literature and Life" by Phyllis Richardson appeals to fans of the Golden Age of Detective Fiction. The book offers a detailed exploration of the outsized importance of sprawling country homes to the crime reader's imagination.
A Confusing Mystery Novel Puzzle
"Cain's Jawbone" by Torquemada is an exhausting but rewarding 100-page mystery-novel puzzle that requires readers to solve six murders by reordering the narrative. Only three people in history have ever managed to solve it, making it the perfect activity for a lively holiday gathering.
A Visual Guide to Film Noir Fashion
For those with an interest in film noir, "Film Noir Style: The Killer 1940s" by Kimberly Truhler offers a rich exploration of the fashion revolution during the era. The lavish illustrations and careful analysis of iconic looks make this book an essential addition to any film noir enthusiast's collection.
Murder and Mayhem in Ancient Rome
"A Fatal Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum: Murder in Ancient Rome" by Emma Southon offers a highly entertaining history of murder in ancient Rome, complete with a nod to the musical "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum."
A Second Volume of Graphic Crime and Mystery Stories
Russ Kick's "The Graphic Canon of Crime and Mystery, Volume Two" features a diverse array of international artists with their own unique takes on crime storytelling. This anthology, scheduled for release on December 7, serves as a fitting tribute to the late editor who created a series of wonderful anthologies.
Tackling the World of True Crime Today
True crime fans will appreciate "Redhanded: An Exploration of Criminals, Cannibals, Cults, and What Makes a Killer Tick" by Suruthi Bala and Hannah Maguire, which delves into the complexities of the true crime world. As hosts of the popular "Redhanded" podcast, these British comediennes bring a unique perspective and humor to their exploration of crime cases.
The Intricate History of 'Midnight Cowboy'
For those fascinated by the world of film, Glenn Frankel's "Shooting Midnight Cowboy: Art, Sex, Loneliness, Liberation, and the Making of a Dark Classic" offers a deep dive into the legends and lore surrounding John Schlesinger's "Midnight Cowboy."
The Definitive Oral History of 'The Sopranos'
Rounding up our list, "Woke Up This Morning: The Definitive Oral History of Sopranos" by Michael Imperioli & Steve Schirripa, with Philip Lerman, offers a profane, hilarious, and poignant exploration of the fictional framework and real-world legacies of the iconic mafia show. A must-read for therapists, mafiosos, and anyone who enjoys a good professional endeavor.
A film noir enthusiast might find delight in "Film Noir Style: The Killer 1940s" by Kimberly Truhler, a visual guide that delves into the fashion revolution during the era. Meanwhile, for those who are captivated by true crime, "Redhanded: An Exploration of Criminals, Cannibals, Cults, and What Makes a Killer Tick" by Suruthi Bala and Hannah Maguire offers a humorous yet thought-provoking analysis of the complexities within the true crime world, appealing to fans who appreciate both entertainment and literature on serial killers.
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